Lithuania in December: Weather, Crowds & What to Expect

Season
Low Season
Temperature
-3 to 1°C (27-34°F)
Crowds
Low
Prices
Low
December is wintry with short days and frequent snow or sleet in many parts; urban Christmas markets operate in major cities. Travel requires winter clothing and some rural roads may be affected by weather.

Climate Map for December

Lithuania average temperature in December
-30°-20°-10° 10°20°30°40°

Average temperature across Lithuania in December.

City Weather in December

City High Low Rain UV Feels
Vilnius -5° 53 mm low Freezing
Kaunas -4° 49 mm low Freezing
Klaipeda City Municipality -2° 73 mm low Cold
Šiauliai -4° 47 mm low Freezing
Panevėžys -3° 44 mm low Freezing
Alytus -4° 48 mm low Freezing
Marijampolė -4° 45 mm low Freezing

High / low are average daily temperatures (°C). “Feels” reflects how hot or cold it feels, allowing for humidity.

Baltic Coast & Curonian Spit (Klaipėda, Palanga, Nida)

December on the Baltic coast is cold, windy and quiet: Christmas lights appear in towns but outdoor life retreats to cafés and spa hotels. The Curonian Spit is atmospheric with frosty mornings and bracing shoreline walks, and in some years the lagoon edges freeze enough to create striking icy patterns. Pack a heavy coat, hat and gloves if you plan to explore, and be prepared for fewer daytime services outside the main resort hubs.

Samogitia & Northern Lowlands (Šiauliai, Telšiai, Mažeikiai)

December’s landscape is ready for winter: snow is likely and woodlands around Šiauliai and Telšiai are atmospheric for short hikes and holiday markets. Road conditions can be variable on secondary routes, so stick to cleared main roads for day trips, and enjoy local saunas and hearty cuisine in village inns. Warm, waterproof boots and a good hat are essential for comfort while sightseeing.

Central Lithuania & Kaunas Region (Kaunas, Kėdainiai, Nemunas valley)

December is a festive, chilly month with Christmas markets in Kaunas and lights along the Nemunas embankments; snow is common but not guaranteed. Winters sports begin at nearby small hills and spa towns, while city life focuses on indoor cultural events. For travelers, bring winter boots, a warm coat and gloves; book accommodation early if you want to see seasonal markets and concerts.

Aukštaitija & Vilnius Upland (Vilnius, Trakai, Anykščiai, Zarasai)

December is a festive winter month with Vilnius’s Christmas market and Trakai’s snow-dusted castle offering atmospheric scenes; lakes and forests are snowy in many years. Skiing and winter recreation operate at small local centres and spa breaks in nearby towns are popular. Bring a heavy coat, hat and boots - cobbled streets can be icy - and book accommodation early if planning to enjoy holiday markets and concerts.

Dzūkija & Southern Spa Country (Druskininkai, Varėna, Merkinė)

December is a festive, snowy month in good winters: spa resorts fill for holiday breaks and small towns light up for Christmas markets. Winter sports are available on modest slopes and the landscape suits short scenic hikes with snowshoes or trekking poles. Insulated footwear, a warm coat and gloves are essential, and booking accommodation early for holiday periods is wise.

Events & Festivals in December

Restoration of Independence Day
March 11 is also celebrated nationally; December features winter holiday events but the major national day is in March.